Experiences of Transgender People in the Healthcare System: A Complex Analysis

• Main Author: Kathryn Rotzinger
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: University of Ottawa 2018-05-01
• Series: University of Ottawa Journal of Medicine
• Subjects: Transgender; Nursing; Health Disparities; Inequity; Barriers; Gender
• Online Access: https://uottawa.scholarsportal.info/ottawa/index.php/uojm-jmuo/article/view/2390
• ISSN: 2292-650X; 2292-6518

A nursing perspective following McIntyre and McDonald’s framework was used to unpack the complex issue of challenges faced by transgender people in the Canadian healthcare system, considering historical, ethical, legal, social, cultural, political, and economic perspectives. Transgender people have unique healthcare needs which are often misunderstood or unaddressed by healthcare professionals, leading to poorer outcomes and inequities. Issues concerning transgender people are becoming a focus and a higher priority for society. This literature review reveals the complexity of this issue as the roots in historical, ethical, legal, social, cultural, political, and economic contexts are explored. A variety of barriers and facilitators exist to addressing and resolving this issue, including transgender people avoiding healthcare, intolerance, lack of knowledge and understanding, lack of healthcare provider training, media representation, and economic costs. The analysis of this issue can be used to inform resolution strategies to utilize facilitators and overcome barriers, including increasing awareness and knowledge, improving education and healthcare provider competency, and utilizing nurse leaders as advocates, role models, and agents of change. Improving care of transgender people is a nursing leadership priority. By implementing the suggested resolution strategies, the healthcare system can begin to move towards a more inclusive, understanding, and holistic model of care to improve healthcare access and outcomes for transgender people.